Coronavirus: Cyprus lost 84.12% of visitor numbers during pandemic, study reveals

Cyprus came second among a list of 10 countries who suffered the most in terms of visitors from 2019 to 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, a study conducted by flight alert and search platform Next Vacay.

The report, released on Thursday, says that the number of visitors to the island decreased by 84.12 per cent from 2019 to 2020 and that the search for flights on the platform also went down 45 per cent in 12 months.

Macau topped the list, recording an 85 per cent drop in visitors and Greece came in 10^th, registering a 75 per cent downfall.

“To help these countries’ tourism industries that were affected by Covid-19, we recommend visitors make a conscious effort to support the local economy,” Naveen Dittakavi, founder and CEO of Next Vacay said.

“Visitors should strive to find a more authentic experience and stay in local hotels rather than chains. Also, when you visit attractions, hire a local tour guide. Not only will you be supporting the local economy, but you’ll also be adding a new experience to your trip,” Dittakavi said.

Some of his other suggestions included buying souvenirs from street vendors and local businesses rather than duty-free and eating at restaurants chosen by locals.